It's Not Rude To Point If You're Pointing The,Way!

I love how this little fellow is evocative of the hermit as he sits up on top of his toad-STOOL *chuckle* holding up his lantern. Unlike the hermit however, he is not seeking the truth, he already has it. His light shines large and luminous. Not only does he know the truth, he points the way for others like a living signpost. A month may be drawn to the flame, but the imp points firmly in the opposite direction: The Moon is that way! This light is not for you!

Like so many of my books, the book that accompanies Waking the Wild Spirit is in storage so I can’t reference it. This is a wonderful, unusual, out of print deck. Although artist Poppy Palin may still have some available. It's been ages since I've had the book out so I can't recall if she goes into her symbolism with depth, but I'm sure her choices are no accident.

Even though this sprite is naked and vulnerable, he sits atop a death cap toadstool. Not only are these fungi extremely toxic, a tea can be made from small amounts (NOPE) that can cause hallucinogenic dreams and visions. Hedgehogs, like the one pictured below the toadstool are symbolic of dreams and clairvoyance. Hedgehogs are also immune to snake venom. Are you seeing a pattern here? The moth, while not painted in detail is likely, a death's-head moth which is not poisonous at all. They're actually lovely sweet creatures unless you happened to be a bee. Then, they will go into your hive and try to eat all your honey. The Death's-Head Moth is not immune to bee venom, but it uses a series of clever tricks (sound, odor, it's “face mask”) so the bees don't see it as a threat or realize what it is up to.

I think given our times this card not only reminds us to speak the truth, but also to help other is fine the path is well. In a world that is full of toxic chaos how do we keep our light shining and remain unscathed by the poison? How will you keep the venom of negative people, narcissists and manipulators from sinking into your skin? Will you deflect their machinations, use a little trickery? Will you develop a thick skinned, prickly immunity? Or will you expose them for what they are? Will you choose to be a light in the darkness? Will you do your best to steer those who might be fooled away before they get hurt? Be confident in knowing you can not only protect yourself, but you can make a difference!